This collection of anecdotes traces the life of a fairly typical family meeting a variety of challenges, mostly involved in raising children and setting them out on a reasonable, disciplined, and moral path. Traditional family events become challenges, as do the usual difficulties in which children find or place themselves on a continuing basis.

The stories are told with the same patience that is exhibited by most of the characters involved. Lessons are learned and wisdom is acquired, but the gathering is never cruel or harsh, and though religion plays a very minor role in the narratives, a strong moral code suffuses the family at the book's center.